Greg Norman showers latest LIV Golf recruit in praise as Saudi tour resumes signings

Greg Norman has expressed his delight after recruiting a former Nike director as LIV Golf's new chief communications officer. Ilana Finley has assumed the role and will lead 'all global communications across LIV Golf, including external and internal communication for the league and its 13 teams'.

Finley was previously the vice president of global communications and social impact at Converse and held several roles at Nike over an 18-year period. She directed strategic communications for their Olympic initiatives and led advocacy programs supporting girls in developing countries.

In a press release confirming Finley's arrival, Norman said: "She knows first-hand the challenges and opportunities that exist when growing a global brand and she understands how to align competition, culture and entertainment to deliver a product that fans embrace.

"Ilana is a skilled leader and communicator with a sincere passion for positively impacting teams and communities around the world, and LIV Golf is proud to have her on board."

Finley said she was delighted to be teaming up with LIV Golf for the next stage of her distinguished career, adding: "I’m excited to join the team at LIV Golf as the league continues to break new ground in the world of sports and entertainment.

"Throughout my career, I’ve had the chance to drive impactful storytelling with global brands that are committed to building connections with diverse audiences by thinking boldly and being unafraid to take chances, and LIV Golf is doing just that.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I’m thrilled to help champion the league’s commitment to innovation, creativity and teamwork while making a positive impact around the world."

Finley is the latest addition to LIV Golf's ranks, with the organisation having recently hired new general managers for five of their teams. Nick Adams, former vice president of strategic partnerships at WME/IMG, has joined the Ripper team led by Cameron Smith.

ATP Tour vice president Richard Glover will join Stinger, led by Louis Oosthuizen, while former Minecraft CEO Jonas Martensson will oversee the Cleeks team. Martin Kim, an esports expert, will link up with the Iron Heads who are led by Kevin Na.

Meanwhile, long-time SPORTFIVE senior vice president of golf Jeff Koski will steer the league's first expansion team, Legion XIII, captained by two-time major champion Jon Rahm.

The new season of LIV Golf will get underway in February, with the first event set to take place in Riyadh.